Automatic Dependent Surveillance

Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) is an air traffic surveillance technology that enables aircraft to be accurately tracked by air traffic controllers and other pilots without the need for conventional radar. While the initial application of ADS-B is to provide high quality surveillance for air traffic control, it also facilitates a number of advanced air-to-air applications that will in future significantly improve safety and performance of aircraft operations.

ADS-B is a system in which electronic equipment onboard an aircraft automatically broadcasts the precise location of the aircraft via a digital data link. The data can be used by other aircraft and air traffic control to show the aircraftâ€™s position and altitude on display screens without the need for radar. The system involves an aircraft with ADS-B determining its position using GPS. A suitable transmitter then broadcasts that position at rapid intervals, along with identity, altitude, velocity and other data. Dedicated ADS-B grounds stations receive the broadcasts and relay the information to air traffic control for precise tracking of the aircraft.